Insurance Blog

Why Did My Auto Insurance Rate Go Up?

At ERIE, we don’t take the price you pay for car insurance lightly. Like most companies today, we’re facing increased costs of doing business. And we know that you are facing rising costs too, on everything from gasoline to breakfast cereal to housing.

And while a lot of factors go into what you pay – from vehicle safety ratings to your personal driving history – striking the balance between insurance premiums and the cost of doing business is key to any insurer’s ability to meet customer expectations and pay for claims.

For questions about your specific auto policy and rate, reach out to your ERIE agent. Generally speaking though, here are some of the biggest factors that may cause auto insurance premiums to increase:

Inflation: The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 4% compared to 2022. This means that on average, all of us are spending 4% more than we were a year ago for the same goods and services.
Vehicle parts: The inflation we were just talking about is even higher when it comes to vehicle parts, with those prices up by closer to 8.3%. (Historically, an increase of 2 to 3% year over year is more typical.)
Repair costs: Recent supply chain issues such as the car chip shortage and labor market pressures have driven up repair costs even more, by as much as 14.2% since 2022. Limited supplies and labor can also cause repairs to take longer, meaning customers are in rental vehicles longer—further driving up the cost of claims.
Vehicle prices: Prices for used vehicles jumped more than 27% in 2021, according to the auto industry analysts at Edmunds. New vehicle prices are up more than 14%.
Driving again (and faster): Americans are going faster than ever before. In a national survey commissioned by ERIE, 1 in 10 drivers admitted to driving at extreme speeds of 20 MPH or more over the speed limit.
Accidents: It should be no surprise based on all that fast driving, but auto accidents are getting more severe, too. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has reported a 12% surge in fatalities, the largest increase since reporting began in 1975.

With inflation on the rise, we understand if you’re feeling financial pressure in your household budget right now. That’s why we keep our founding purpose front and center when we make decisions affecting our customers:

“To provide our Policyholders with as near perfect protection, as near perfect service as is humanly possible and to do so at the lowest possible cost.”

This purpose has served us well for nearly 100 years and we hope our customers agree that it has worked out pretty well for them, too. ERIE is committed to rates that cover costs properly and that will maintain the financial strength needed to keep being there for customers, year after year. If you’re looking for tips on how to save on your premium without compromising your coverage, check out our blog story How To Find Good Cheap Auto Insurance.

How to Save on Your Auto Insurance

While we want to do our best to explain what’s behind the increased costs you might see in your insurance bill these days, we also understand that doing that doesn’t put any more money in your pocket. So here are a few ideas that might.

Ask about pay plan discounts. Depending on which plan you choose, you can save up to 7% on your auto insurance.
Get a quote with the ERIE Rate Lock^® feature². With ERIE Rate Lock^®, you will pay the same premium year after year – even if you have a claim. Your rates won’t change until you make certain changes to your auto insurance policy, such as adding or removing a vehicle or a driver from your policy, changing your address or where you usually park your car. (In New York, ask about ERIE Rate Protect^SM. In Maryland, ask about ERIE Select Auto.)
Take a look at your deductibles. Consider a higher deductible to lower your auto insurance premium. Read our guide on how to choose a deductible .
Revisit your mileage. Are you working from home and driving less than before the pandemic? You may be eligible for a lower rate based on annual miles driven. (Reduced usage discount not available in Kentucky.)
Bundle your coverage with ERIE. You can earn a multi-policy discount¹ when you combine your ERIE auto, home (including renters) or qualifying life insurance policy. Learn more about how to bundle with ERIE.

Oh, and discounts? We’ve got ‘em. Get the details in our full list of auto insurance discounts.

Remember: You Aren’t Alone

When you’re with ERIE, every car insurance policy comes with a knowledgeable agent in your area.

Your agent is there to help you understand and navigate all the variables that impact your rates. Find a local insurance agent near you to understand what coverage you’re buying, why it matters and how it works.

Not an ERIE customer yet? See if ERIE can offer a more affordable car insurance rate and get a quote.

ERIE® insurance products and services are provided by one or more of the following insurers: Erie Insurance Exchange, Erie Insurance Company, Erie Insurance Property & Casualty Company, Flagship City Insurance Company and Erie Family Life Insurance Company (home offices: Erie, Pennsylvania) or Erie Insurance Company of New York (home office: Rochester, New York). The companies within the Erie Insurance Group are not licensed to operate in all states. Refer to the company licensure and states of operation information.

The insurance products and rates, if applicable, described in this blog are in effect as of July 2022 and may be changed at any time.

Insurance products are subject to terms, conditions and exclusions not described in this blog. The policy contains the specific details of the coverages, terms, conditions and exclusions.

The insurance products and services described in this blog are not offered in all states. ERIE life insurance and annuity products are not available in New York. ERIE Medicare supplement products are not available in the District of Columbia or New York. ERIE long term care products are not available in the District of Columbia and New York.

Eligibility will be determined at the time of application based upon applicable underwriting guidelines and rules in effect at that time.

Your ERIE agent can offer you practical guidance and answer questions you may have before you buy.

Posted on 30 November 2023 | 9:00 pm

Proper Storage, Charging and Use of Lithium-ion Batteries

What do smartphones, snow blowers, toothbrushes and electric cars have in common? They’re all being powered by lithium-ion batteries these days.

Advancements in lithium battery technologies are allowing manufacturers to get more power from an increasingly smaller package – fueling the growth of everything from wireless headphones and smartwatches to e-bikes and cordless power tools.

But for all the benefits of lithium-ion batteries, they come with one major drawback: if they’re not properly used, maintained and stored, they run the risk of experiencing a thermal runaway. (What’s thermal runaway? Keep reading to find out.)

To help you get the most life out of your battery-powered devices, follow these tips on the proper storage, charging and use of lithium-ion batteries.

What is a Lithium-ion Battery?

Every type of battery creates electricity by turning chemical energy into electrical energy. It does this by using chemical reactions to create a flow of electrons from one material to another. We’ll spare you the rest of the science lesson. The important thing to know is that the materials used (lead-acid, alkaline, nickel-cadmium, etc.) all have different charging properties.

Lithium batteries use – you got it – lithium in metal or ion (Li-ion) form as their anode material. And they come with several advantages. Lithium-ion batteries are easily rechargeable and have the highest energy density of any battery technology, meaning they pack more power into a smaller space. They also can deliver a voltage up to three times higher than other battery types. For this reason, you’ll find lithium batteries in almost all modern portable electronic devices.

The list includes smartphones, laptops, tablets, eReaders, smart watches and Bluetooth headphones. Larger lithium battery packs are also used to power things like electric scooters, hoverboards, e-bikes and even electric cars.

How to Store a Lithium-ion Battery

If you’ve flown on an airplane or shipped a package recently, you’ve probably seen warnings related to proper lithium battery storage. That’s because lithium batteries have been known to cause fires when they’re damaged or stored improperly.

To safely store your lithium-ion batteries, follow these tips:

Avoid temperature extremes. Experts say the ideal temperature for storing lithium batteries is around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Storing a battery in extreme hot or cold temperatures will reduce its lifespan. That includes exposing your battery to direct sunlight.
Keep them dry. Wet or humid environments can cause lithium batteries to rust or leak. In a worst-case scenario, moisture could even create an electrical short.
Store them partially charged. For longer-term storage, keep your batteries at about a 40 to 50 percent charge. Storing a fully charged battery can reduce its storage capacity. And when you store a completely dead battery, you risk it dropping to a zero-voltage state. When this happens, the battery may not be able to recharge – rendering it permanently disabled.
Remove batteries from your device. When storing a battery for long periods of time, remove it from the device, if possible. Even if your device is powered off, there is still a small electrical current running through the battery – which can cause a complete discharge over time.
Store in a safe place. Never store lithium-ion batteries near flammable or combustible materials.

When bringing your devices inside, make sure you store them in an area that won’t block a means of egress in the event of a fire. For example, storing a regular bicycle near your back door would be fine, but you wouldn’t want to do that with an e-bike. Lastly, make sure that your smoke detectors are functional and will warn you right away if there’s a fire.

How to Charge a Lithium-ion Battery

To get the best performance out of your lithium battery, try to recharge it before it’s completely dead. A good rule of thumb to follow is plugging in your device when the battery reaches 10 to 20 percent of its remaining capacity.

A fully discharged battery adds extra stress to the components, which can reduce its lifespan. So it’s always better to top off your device’s charge throughout the day than to wait for it to die completely.

It’s also worth noting that overcharging can damage lithium batteries, too. While most devices have protective circuits to prevent overcharging, you may still want to consider unplugging your device or battery from the power source after it’s been fully charged. Speaking of charging, only use the charging cable or dock that was provided with your device. Other chargers (while they may claim to charge faster) can damage the battery.

Good air circulation around the battery is also important. Recharging batteries creates heat and allowing for air flow helps keep them cool.

Why do Lithium-ion Batteries Catch Fire?

As we’ve explained, lithium batteries are capable of generating a lot of electricity. And heat is a natural byproduct this process. If a lithium battery is damaged or defective, uncontrolled chemical reactions (called thermal runaway) can occur. This generates excessive heat that can lead to battery fires – or even explosions.

To prevent a possible fire, look for warning signs of a damaged lithium battery. This can include excessive heat, swelling, noise, burning smells or smoke coming from the battery. For more information, check out our blog post on lithium battery fires.

Can I Fly With Lithium-ion Batteries?

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) does allow airline passengers to fly with lithium-ion batteries in their carry-on baggage. According to the FAA guidelines, devices containing lithium batteries can also be packed in checked baggage, as long as they are turned completely off and protected from damage. Spare batteries and electronic cigarettes, however, can only be transported in a carry-on bag. More information is available on the FAA’s PackSafe website.

How Long do Lithium-ion Batteries Last?

The lifespan of a lithium-ion battery is defined by its charging cycles – the number of times it can be charged and discharged. According to Popular Mechanics, most lithium batteries have a rated lifetime of between 500 to 1,500 charge cycles. But the true lifespan of your battery can vary greatly depending on its use environment and charging conditions.

The more charge cycles you have on a battery, the less charge it will hold. For devices that you use every day (like your smartphone), you’ll typically notice a significant drop in battery performance after a year or so.

It’s worth noting also that if your battery pack is damaged, don’t try to repair or replace it on your own. Purchasing a new one is the safest way to continue using your device.

How Should I Dispose of Lithium-ion Batteries?

When your device or lithium battery is at the end of its usable life, don’t just throw it in the trash. Recycle it instead. Contact your local recycling center to find a facility near you. Or ask your local electronics retailer if they have a battery recycling program.

If you’re unable to find a recycling center and your only option is to throw it away, cover the connectors at the end of the battery with tape. This will help reduce the likelihood of a “short” occurring.

Protect Your Home – And Everything In It

When you buy a homeowners policy from Erie Insurance, you don’t just get protection for your house. Our Personal Property Coverage also protects the items inside your home from damage, theft and loss. To learn more about homeowners insurance from ERIE, contact your local insurance agent today.

Insurance products are subject to terms, conditions and exclusions not described in this blog. The policy contains the specific details of the coverages, terms, conditions and exclusions.

Eligibility will be determined at the time of application based upon applicable underwriting guidelines and rules in effect at that time.

Your ERIE agent can offer you practical guidance and answer questions you may have before you buy.

Posted on 26 November 2023 | 9:00 pm

What to Know About Outdoor Patio Heaters

As the winter months approach, you, like many homeowners, are probably looking for ways to stay comfortable outdoors as the temperature drops.

One solution: outdoor heaters. These handy appliances are finding their way onto restaurant patios and backyard decks everywhere. A sight once reserved for ski lodges, a patio heater can be a great way to get even more use out of your favorite outdoor spaces. Here’s what you need to know before you buy a patio heater.

How Does a Patio Heater Work?

Unlike an outdoor fire pit, you don’t have to huddle around a patio heater to get warm. They’re specifically designed to radiate heat outward where people are gathered. To generate heat, Patio heaters have different fuel sources – usually propane, electric or natural gas. (Keep reading to find out how to choose which one is right for you.)

Where Can I Use a Patio Heater?

Because natural gas and propane heaters use an open flame to generate heat, they can be used in well-ventilated outdoor spaces like patios, terraces, gardens, and outdoor porches or decks.

For safety, don’t use a patio heater in an enclosed area like a building or garage, or too close to the ceiling of a covered deck or patio. Using your patio heater in a poorly ventilated area could be a fire risk, or lead to suffocation or poisoning from toxic carbon monoxide fumes. Experts recommend keeping at least a three-foot clearance around your heater, unless specified otherwise by the manufacturer.

How Much Does a Patio Heater Cost?

Like other household appliances, the price you’ll pay for an outdoor patio heater will vary depending on its size and quality. A small electric tabletop heater can be purchased for as low as $100, while large commercial-style gas heaters can cost $500 or more.

What Size Patio Heater Do I Need?

The heat output of a patio heater is measured in “British Thermal Units,” or BTUs. The technical definition of a BTU is this: the amount of energy that’s required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit.

Confused? In common terms, a BTU is just a uniform way to measure heat output. More BTUs = more heat. It really is that simple. And every patio heater on the market will have a BTU rating that’s supplied by the manufacturer.

To calculate the right size heater for your space, try this quick math formula: Just multiply the size of your space (in cubic feet) by the desired temperature increase.

For example, raising the temperature of a 10-by-10 foot patio by 40 degrees Fahrenheit – assuming an 8 foot heater height – would require a 32,000 BTU heater (10x10x8x40=32,000). Hint: if you’re not great at math, a square footage range is often provided by the heater’s manufacturer.

What Type of Patio Heater Should I Buy?

When it comes to purchasing an outdoor patio heater, you’ll choose from three main fuel sources. There’s no right or wrong choice, and each fuel source has its pros and cons. Here’s some information to help you choose a patio heater for your home.

Propane patio heaters: These patio heaters work similarly to a propane barbecue grill. They are the most portable heater option because the fuel is supplied through a metal propane tank. But that also means the heater will shut off when you’re out of gas. For a 40,000 BTU patio heater, a full 5-gallon propane cylinder will last around 10 hours – so plan accordingly.
Electric patio heaters: As the only non-gas option, electric patio heaters don’t need to be ventilated because there’s no open flame. This can make them great for areas such as covered decks and porches. Because they function like a space heater, they can be permanently mounted below a ceiling, too (just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s specific installation instructions). An electric heater will put out far less heat than a gas patio heater, maxing out at around 5,000 BTUs. But because it’s infrared heat, they’re said to provide a more comfortable feeling of warmth.
Natural gas patio heaters: Like a direct line gas grill, much of a natural gas patio heater’s appeal comes from the fact that you’ll never run out of fuel. Because they’re hooked into your home’s natural gas line, these heaters are the least expensive to operate – but they do need to be permanently installed by a professional. Overall, you get the benefits of a propane heater without lugging around heavy propane tanks. However, they’re less portable and the initial cost will be higher.

Are Patio Heaters Safe?

When used correctly, patio heaters offer a safe way to heat your favorite outdoor spaces. But like any home heating source, they can be dangerous if not used correctly. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and never leave a patio heater unattended.

Here are some tips to ensure your patio heater is being used safely:

Give it space. Over time, your patio heater will generate a lot of heat. (That’s why you bought it, right?) To prevent fire hazards, keep your heater a safe distance away from walls, ceilings, furniture, carpet or any other flammable material. Experts recommend providing three feet of clearance around all sides of the heater, unless otherwise specified by the heater’s manufacturer.
Find a level spot. Only use your patio heater on a flat, level surface. Placing your heater on an incline could cause it to roll or tip over, creating both a fire and burn hazard.
Check for leaks. When setting up a natural gas or propane patio heater, always conduct a thorough inspection to ensure there are no gas leaks. You can do this by applying a soapy water solution to your gas tank and hose connections. If you see bubbles rising from any connection points or smell gas, turn off the heater and tighten the connections. If you can’t stop the leak, get your heater serviced before using it.
Light it safely. When lighting up a gas patio heater, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. While most heaters have an electric ignitor button, others may require you to light the pilot manually. If so, use a candle or grill lighter that allows you to start the flame from a safe distance. If you can’t get the burner to light right away, turn off the heater and wait at least five minutes. Then try again. This will prevent gas buildup, which could lead to an explosion or flash burn.
Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Even if you follow every safety precaution, accidents can still happen. That’s why it’s wise to always keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Just make sure the fire extinguisher you buy is the right class for your patio heater’s fuel source (Class B for gas; Class C for electric; or a multipurpose extinguisher for both).
Watch it carefully. Never leave a patio heater running while unattended. Be sure to keep kids and pets a safe distance away at all times to prevent burns. And avoid using your heater when winds exceed 10 miles per hour – the heater could blow over, or the flame could blow out.
Cover it up. Patio heaters are designed to be weather-resistant. But over time, your heater may develop problems if it’s left out in the elements. Correctly storing your heater when it’s not in use will prevent it from getting clogged with bugs and debris, and also prevent rust. You can purchase a custom cover to protect your heater when it’s not being used. And if you won’t be using it for several months, it’s a good idea to disassemble it and store the heater indoors. Just be sure to leave the propane tank outside. Propane should never be stored indoors — even in a shed or garage.

Be Ready in Any Weather

Just like the weather, life is rarely predictable. For whatever’s in store, we’re with you on the journey. We’re flexible when circumstances change, steady when the unexpected happens, capable when help is needed and optimistic about what the future holds. To learn how we can help protect your home with the right homeowners insurance, talk to a local ERIE agent in your neighborhood today.

Insurance products are subject to terms, conditions and exclusions not described in this blog. The policy contains the specific details of the coverages, terms, conditions and exclusions.

Eligibility will be determined at the time of application based upon applicable underwriting guidelines and rules in effect at that time.

Your ERIE agent can offer you practical guidance and answer questions you may have before you buy.

Posted on 21 November 2023 | 9:00 pm

6 Common Business Insurance Questions: New Businesses and Startups

As an entrepreneur, you’ve got a lot on your plate. Building your business plan. Securing funding. Setting sales goals. Finding new customers. Keeping track of your finances… The list goes on and on.

With so much to get done, chances are buying a business insurance policy isn’t high on your list. To make matters worse, it’s a common misconception that insuring your business isn’t really necessary when you’re just starting out.

But the truth is, every business needs insurance – even startups. It’s a simple step you can take to protect the company you’re working so hard to build. And it can cost less than you may think.

To help you understand why business insurance is so important, here are answers to some of the most common questions about insuring a new business or startup.

Why Do I Need Business Insurance?

Like any type of insurance policy, business insurance is designed to help protect you against risk. And there’s no shortage of risks that businesses face – especially new businesses and startups. If you open a physical office or location, someone could file a lawsuit after getting injured on your property. If a client is unhappy with your work, they could sue you for negligence. Your product inventory could get damaged or stolen. Without the proper insurance coverage, your business would be on the hook for all of these unexpected expenses. And if you’re just starting out, that added cost could put you out of business entirely.

When Should I Buy Insurance for My New Business?

When your business is still in the early planning phases, there’s probably not much that needs protecting. But as your startup dreams turn into reality and you make your first sale, it’s wise to look into a business insurance policy. Business insurance can help protect against everything from property damage to liability claims from customers and employees. So, buying a policy early in the life of your business will offer the best protection from the start. Speaking of employees, as soon as you hire your first employee you’ll be legally required to carry workers’ compensation insurance. This insurance helps cover medical care and lost wages for an employee who is hurt at work.

Do I Need Business Insurance for a Home-Based Business?

If your business is starting out in your basement, home office or garage, you may think that business insurance is unnecessary. But just because you're working out of your home doesn’t mean you’ll be covered by your homeowners insurance. Most homeowners and renters policies only go so far and aren’t designed to cover things like destroyed business inventory or customer injuries. For example, if you’re a photographer and your high-end camera equipment is damaged by a water leak, your homeowners coverage might be limited to $500 or $1,000 for equipment used exclusively for a business. And if a client trips down the stairs to your basement office, your homeowners policy wouldn’t cover a premises liability claim because they are a business client. Business insurance, owever, would protect you in both these instances – and more.

What Type of Business Insurance do I Need?

The type of insurance you need for your startup will largely depend on the specific business or industry you’re in. That’s why Erie Insurance offers business insurance packages that are tailored to your specific industry. But generally, you may want to consider:

Commercial auto insurance: Whether you rely on a single car or a large fleet of vehicles, commercial auto insurance is something many businesses need. This coverage can protect your business against claims for bodily injury and property damage caused by a covered accident arising out of the use of a company vehicle.
Commercial property insurance: Commercial property insurance helps protect the building or physical location you work in, whether it’s owned with property coverage or leased with liability coverage for damage that’s your fault. It could also replace damaged or stolen assets like equipment and product inventory. Some policies, like business interruption coverage, can even help recover any income you lost while your doors were closed due to a covered loss.
General liability insurance: While specific liabilities may vary from business to business, a general liability policy protects you against covered claims alleging bodily injury or property damage.
Employment Practices Liability (EPL): Legal issues stemming from alleged discrimination, wrongful termination and harassment are growing concerns for today’s small business owner. With EPL coverage from ERIE, you can choose the protection that best fits your needs to help cover the costs of a lawsuit – even if the charges aren’t true.
Cyber Suite: Protection for cyber incidents isn’t just for large businesses. With Cyber Suite¹ from ERIE, you’ll be prepared to respond to a wide range of cyber incidents including breaches of personally identifying or sensitive information and threats that could jeopardize the safety of that information.
Workers' compensation insurance: Often referred to as workers’ comp, this policy is legally required in most states if you hire employees. It helps cover medical care and lost wages for an employee who is hurt at work and cannot return (not available in Ohio).
Business umbrella policy: No matter how careful you or your employees are, mistakes and accidents, unfortunately, do happen. That’s why many business owners make the smart decision to protect themselves with extra business liability insurance. ERIE’s business umbrella is an additional layer of coverage that gives you extra protection and peace of mind above and beyond your commercial general liability, professional liability, business auto liability and employers liability insurance. (Check with your local ERIE agent about any sublimits that might apply.)

How do I Determine How Much Insurance Coverage I Need?

After figuring out what type of insurance you need, the next step is to decide how much coverage is enough to protect your growing business. Generally speaking, your coverage limits should match the level of risk your business will be exposed to. But that’s a difficult thing to figure out on your own. Fortunately, you can get customized advice from an ERIE agent in your neighborhood. As a member of your community, your local ERIE agent is uniquely positioned to understand the insurance needs of your business. They also know the risks associated with where you live, such as the local costs of construction and common claims.

How Can I Save Money on My Insurance Coverage?

Nearly every startup has one thing in common: money is tight. As a small business owner themselves, your local independent ERIE agent can help you find the right balance between price and protection. This process helps ensure that your policy provides all the coverage you need at a cost you can afford. Your ERIE agent can even help you take action to reduce risks in the first place with access to a risk control consultant. They’re a free resource to help you evaluate the potential risks your business faces and then recommend measures you can take to help reduce those risks – and potentially lower your premiums in the process.

Be Ready for Anything

The life of an entrepreneur is unpredictable. Every day brings new opportunities – and new challenges. No matter what comes your way, you can always count on Erie Insurance and our agents to help protect the business that means so much to you. To learn more about business insurance from ERIE, contact a local agent today.

¹Cyber Suite is only available to Customers with an ErieSecure Business® policy. Cyber Suite coverage and associated services reinsured under an arrangement with the Hartford Steam Boiler (Home Office: Hartford, Connecticut). © 2021 The Hartford Steam Boiler Inspection and Insurance Company (“HSB”). All rights reserved. This document is intended for informational purposes only and does not modify or invalidate any of the terms or conditions of the policy and endorsements. For specific terms and conditions, please refer to the coverage form. Coverage not available in New York.

Insurance products are subject to terms, conditions and exclusions not described in this blog. The policy contains the specific details of the coverages, terms, conditions and exclusions.

Eligibility will be determined at the time of application based upon applicable underwriting guidelines and rules in effect at that time.

Your ERIE agent can offer you practical guidance and answer questions you may have before you buy.

Posted on 21 November 2023 | 9:00 pm

How Quickly Can a Christmas Tree Catch Fire?

With twinkly lights, glistening tinsel and dozens of homemade ornaments, our Christmas trees tell the stories of our family traditions. But if your holiday memories spark into a Christmas tree fire, it can be a frightening sight.

While Christmas tree fires aren’t common, they can cause serious and sometimes deadly damage. The National Fire Protection Association reports that an average of 160 home fires are caused by Christmas trees per year. The fires burn quickly and can destroy more than just the tree, resulting in $10 million in direct property damage annually, according to the NFPA.

To see how much damage a Christmas tree fire can cause, Erie staged a fire in a vacant home, supervised by the local fire department. From its first flame, it only took 30 seconds to fill the room with toxic smoke. And in one minute, it burned down the entire living room.

Watch the footage of a real Christmas tree fire here:

What Causes a Christmas Tree Fire?

Many people love their Christmas decorations and choose to leave them up for a few weeks after the holiday. But when it comes to a dried-out live Christmas tree, that's a dangerous risk to take. The moisture content of your tree can determine how quickly a fire will spread. A well-maintained tree won’t catch as easily as one with dry branches and needles.

How to Prevent Your Christmas Tree from Catching Fire

Keep your tree shining bright and fire free with these helpful tips:

Water your tree.We’ve talked with the experts on picking the right Christmas tree, but once it’s home water it regularly. Pro tip: filling your tree stand with warm water when you first get home will help it absorb more quickly after a long drive.
Choose the perfect spot. To prevent fires, pick a location free from heating vents, fireplaces or candles. (But if you do decide to light a candle that pairs perfectly with the scent of your fresh pine tree, be sure to follow these candle safety tips.)
Inspect your lights. According to the NFPA, nearly one in five Christmas tree fires start due to decorative lights. Before you start decorating, check your string lights for any frayed wires or other damage that could spark a fire. (Check out these additional tips on hanging holiday lights.)
Turn lights off when you aren’t home. And if you plan to take an extended trip, take a look at these reminders before leaving home for the holidays.

Looking After You

This holiday season, make sure you and your family have the right home insurance so you can tackle whatever life throws your way. Give yourself the gift of peace of mind with Guaranteed Replacement Cost¹ to protect your home this holiday season and beyond. Talk to your local Erie agent to upgrade your coverage.

¹Guaranteed Replacement Cost applies to dwelling and requires home improvements over $5,000 to be reported within 90 days - not available with all policies and in all states. Coverage of costs to comply with laws or ordinances is subject to limits. Depreciation will be deducted until repair or replacement is made. Talk to an ERIE agent for more information.

Insurance products are subject to terms, conditions and exclusions not described in this blog. The policy contains the specific details of the coverages, terms, conditions and exclusions.

Eligibility will be determined at the time of application based upon applicable underwriting guidelines and rules in effect at that time.

Your ERIE agent can offer you practical guidance and answer questions you may have before you buy.

Posted on 21 November 2023 | 9:00 pm

Insurance Blog

Why Did My Auto Insurance Rate Go Up?

How to Save on Your Auto Insurance

Remember: You Aren’t Alone

Proper Storage, Charging and Use of Lithium-ion Batteries

What is a Lithium-ion Battery?

How to Store a Lithium-ion Battery

How to Charge a Lithium-ion Battery

Why do Lithium-ion Batteries Catch Fire?

Can I Fly With Lithium-ion Batteries?

How Long do Lithium-ion Batteries Last?

How Should I Dispose of Lithium-ion Batteries?

Protect Your Home – And Everything In It

What to Know About Outdoor Patio Heaters

How Does a Patio Heater Work?

Where Can I Use a Patio Heater?

How Much Does a Patio Heater Cost?

What Size Patio Heater Do I Need?

What Type of Patio Heater Should I Buy?

Are Patio Heaters Safe?

Be Ready in Any Weather

6 Common Business Insurance Questions: New Businesses and Startups

Why Do I Need Business Insurance?

When Should I Buy Insurance for My New Business?

Do I Need Business Insurance for a Home-Based Business?

What Type of Business Insurance do I Need?

How do I Determine How Much Insurance Coverage I Need?

How Can I Save Money on My Insurance Coverage?

Be Ready for Anything

How Quickly Can a Christmas Tree Catch Fire?

What Causes a Christmas Tree Fire?

How to Prevent Your Christmas Tree from Catching Fire

Looking After You

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